Homeowner seeks setback variance on Wildwood Drive to address water and parking issues

Corey O'Donnell requested a variance (case 2504B) to allow a front addition and attached garage that would place the structure 34 feet from the center line of Wildwood Drive — 16 feet closer than the typical R‑1 setback. O'Donnell told the board that water runoff and slope behind the existing front wall have allowed water into his master bedroom during heavy rains, and that moving the living area and adding a garage would help manage rooflines and drainage.

O'Donnell presented neighborhood observations showing multiple homes on Wildwood Drive with garages closer than the 50‑foot standard; he said two nearby properties had been granted variances in recent years. He described a plan to remove a three‑foot brick retaining wall in front of the house, install a new retaining wall and create parking adjacent to the roadway so visitors need not park in the narrow street. He told the board he had discussed the plan with the Grove Glen road commissioner, who was supportive of the proposed additional parking because it would reduce roadside parking and help road maintenance and treatment.

County departments (health, soil and water, Farm Bureau, county highway department) had no objections in the file; Brooklyn Township Road Commissioner had no objection. The Zoning Board asked several technical questions: distance to an existing tree and retaining wall, construction materials (applicant said traditional siding and asphalt roofing to match the house), and whether the porch addition would be enclosed (applicant said it would be an open overhang with Trex decking). O'Donnell supplied detailed plans showing a two‑stall garage, an expanded living room, and a basement storage area beneath.

No final vote or motion on case 2504B appears in the transcript excerpt. The item was presented with supporting documentation and local agency comments; the board held questions for the applicant.